Rainbow Chalk

The chalk dissolved

on the pavement

when the first rains

of the year came,

Hopscotch trails

and stick figures

disappearing

as the ground turned a deeper grey.

Only the children were disappointed,

having to retreat indoors,

While the jubilant adults

rushed out to dance naked

in the streets,

Mouths open,

drinking, children themselves

once again.

When the rain ceased

and the sun returned,

The adults quickly dressed,

eyes averted from each other,

And shuffled back inside,

While the children roared out,

Oblivious to the gentle madness of adults,

Rainbow chalks bright

in their innocent hands.

Edward Lee

Edward Lee's poetry, short stories, non-fiction and photography have been published in magazines in Ireland, England and America, including The Stinging Fly, Skylight 47, Acumen and Smiths Knoll. His debut poetry collection "Playing Poohsticks On Ha'Penny Bridge" was published in 2010. He is currently working towards a second collection.

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